Making the decision to have a pet euthanised is one of the most difficult things you may ever have to do. But the process of euthanasia itself does not have to be stressful for you or your pet, and can in fact be a calm and peaceful time, unhurried and pain-free. For more information about our compassionate at-home service, see our Euthanasia page. There are many choices to be made at this time such as where should it take place? Who should attend? Home burial or cremation? Whatever you decide, your vet should support you through the whole process, and there are many resources out there to help you at this difficult time including many places you can turn to should you find the loss of your beloved pet too much to bear at times.
- The Ralph Sitewww.theralphsite.com — a really lovely site created by a vet and dedicated to pets who have lost their lives and the owners who cared for them. Excellent information about euthanasia and bereavement, with lots of support including ways to help memorialise a much loved pet such as a Facebook memorial wall.
- Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Servicewww.bluecross.org.uk/2083/pet-bereavement-support-service.html — when faced with the loss of a beloved pet, sometimes it really helps to talk to someone who understands. Ring their pet loss helpline directly on 0800 096 6606 or see their website for more details. They also have some good articles including one about helping children with the loss of a pet here: www.bluecross.org.uk/82007/Download-ourliterature.html
- Cornell University Feline Health Centerwww.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/health_resources/topics.cfm — they have a good article on euthanasia and also knowing when to say goodbye.
- International Cat Carewww.icatcare.org/advice/cat-health/euthanasia-cats — a good article about euthanasia in cats.